Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
We pursue our national interests and project the UK as a force for good in the world. We promote the interests of British citizens, safeguard the UK’s security, defend our values, reduce poverty and tackle global challenges with our international partners.
Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Lord Purvis of Tweed (LD - Life peer)Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs)
Calum Miller (LD - Bicester and Woodstock)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Foreign Affairs)
Conservative
Priti Patel (Con - Witham)Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Green Party
Ellie Chowns (Green - North Herefordshire)Green Spokesperson (Foreign Affairs)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Callanan (Con - Life peer)Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Wendy Morton (Con - Aldridge-Brownhills)
Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Ministers of State
Stephen Doughty (LAB - Cardiff South and Penarth)Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab - Life peer)Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Hamish Falconer (Lab - Lincoln)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Seema Malhotra (LAB - Feltham and Heston)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Chris Elmore (Lab - Bridgend)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Written Statements
18:20
Although China is the UK’s fifth largest trading partner, the UK Government has, in recent years, described China as an …
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to help …
These Regulations are made under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018 (c. 13) (“the Sanctions Act”).
A Bill to make provision for and in connection with the implementation by the United Kingdom of the Agreement under …
17:39
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Commons Appearances
Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs
Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:- Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
- Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
- Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.
Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue
Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.
Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Bills currently before Parliament
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament
Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament
A Bill to make provision for and in connection with the implementation by the United Kingdom of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction.
This Bill received Royal Assent on 12th February 2026 and was enacted into law.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - Secondary Legislation
Petitions
e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.
If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.
If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).
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Petition Closed
Urgently fulfil humanitarian obligations to Gaza
Gov Responded - 8 Aug 2025 Debated on - 24 Nov 2025closed 8 months, 4 weeks ago
Act to ensure deliverer of fuel, food, aid, life saving services etc. We think this shouldn't be dependant/on condition of Israeli facilitation as the Knesset voted against UNWRA access to Gaza. We think if military delivery of aid, airdrops, peacekeepers etc, are needed, then all be considered.
Departmental Select Committee
Foreign Affairs Committee
Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.
At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.
Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.
11 Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 11th September 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 27th October 2025
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 13th April 2026
Foreign Affairs Committee: Upcoming Events
Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
28 Apr 2026, 8:30 a.m.
At 9:00am: Oral evidence
Sir Philip Barton GCMG OBE - Former Permanent Under-Secretary at Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
At 11:00am: Oral evidence
Morgan McSweeney - Former Downing Street Chief of Staff
View calendar - Save to Calendar
Foreign Affairs Committee: 17 Current Inquiries
Foreign Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
50 most recent Written Questions
(View all written questions)In February 2025, the UK introduced policy measures on Rwanda in response to developments in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The UK continues to encourage all parties to meaningfully engage with peace processes and implement agreed commitments. I delivered this message during my visits to Kigali in October 2025, and to the Democratic Republic of Congo in March of this year. It is the UK's long-standing policy not to comment on potential sanctions designations as to do so would risk weakening their impact.
Minister of State (Development)
In February 2025, the UK introduced policy measures on Rwanda in response to developments in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The UK continues to encourage all parties to meaningfully engage with peace processes and implement agreed commitments. I delivered this message during my visits to Kigali in October 2025, and to the Democratic Republic of Congo in March of this year. It is the UK's long-standing policy not to comment on potential sanctions designations as to do so would risk weakening their impact.
Minister of State (Development)
The Noble Lord will appreciate that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) does not have unlimited resources, and FCDO officials therefore tend to focus their analytical work on the impact of the actions and policies for which the UK is responsible, not other countries.
Minister of State (Development)
The Noble Lord will appreciate that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) does not have unlimited resources, and FCDO officials therefore tend to focus their analytical work on the impact of the actions and policies for which the UK is responsible, not other countries.
Minister of State (Development)
The Noble Lord will appreciate that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) does not have unlimited resources, and FCDO officials therefore tend to focus their analytical work on the impact of the actions and policies for which the UK is responsible, not other countries.
Minister of State (Development)
The Egyptian Government has stated a firm commitment to protect the rights of Coptic Christians and their freedom of worship, and protections for freedom of religion are mandated in the Egyptian constitution. The UK champions freedom of religion or belief for all and regularly discusses human rights concerns with the Government of Egypt and international counterparts, and will continue to do so, where appropriate.
Minister of State (Development)
The sinking of the S.S. Tilawa was an appalling tragedy which continues to resonate eight decades on. Our thoughts remain with all the families who lost loved ones on that day, and the Government supports their efforts to commemorate the tragedy, including on the 84th anniversary later this year.
Decisions on Japanese diplomatic representation are a matter for the Government of Japan, which has apologised several times for its wartime actions in recent decades. Over that time, the UK and Japan have worked hard to promote our shared values, including respect for human rights and the rule of law, and the mutual pursuit of peace and prosperity, and we will continue working with Japan to those ends in the years to come.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The sinking of the S.S. Tilawa was an appalling tragedy which continues to resonate eight decades on. Our thoughts remain with all the families who lost loved ones on that day, and the Government supports their efforts to commemorate the tragedy, including on the 84th anniversary later this year.
Decisions on Japanese diplomatic representation are a matter for the Government of Japan, which has apologised several times for its wartime actions in recent decades. Over that time, the UK and Japan have worked hard to promote our shared values, including respect for human rights and the rule of law, and the mutual pursuit of peace and prosperity, and we will continue working with Japan to those ends in the years to come.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 20 April in response to Question 127028.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 20 April in response to Question 127028.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 20 April in response to Question 127028.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Our High Commission in New Delhi, along with our network of Deputy High Commissions, monitors the human rights situation in India closely, including issues affecting Christian communities. We also engage with civil society and faith leaders to support efforts to promote tolerance and respect between communities.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I thank the Rt. Hon Member for her consistent and passionate campaigning on this issue. The UK remains determined to tackle the abhorrent levels of violence against women and girls in Sudan, including the widespread use of rape as a weapon of war, and we continue to work with international partners and Non Governmental Organisations to provide support to the victims of that violence, to pursue justice against the perpetrators, and to seek a path to lasting peace and security in Sudan, so that women and girls in that country, and those that have fled to neighbouring countries, can live their lives free from fear.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The High-Level Meeting comes at a critical moment for the global HIV response and offers an opportunity to reaffirm international commitments to end AIDS for good. The UK has endorsed the Global AIDS Strategy 2026-2031 and will work to ensure the political declaration upholds its ambitions, particularly on human rights and gender equality, as well as harnessing the opportunity presented by long-acting injectable HIV prevention and treatment.
Minister of State (Development)
The High-Level Meeting comes at a critical moment for the global HIV response and offers an opportunity to reaffirm international commitments to end AIDS for good. The UK has endorsed the Global AIDS Strategy 2026-2031 and will work to ensure the political declaration upholds its ambitions, particularly on human rights and gender equality, as well as harnessing the opportunity presented by long-acting injectable HIV prevention and treatment.
Minister of State (Development)
The UK Government keeps in regular contact with our counterparts in Mauritius regarding progress on the implementation of the agreement. We do not intend to provide a running commentary on these conversations.
Minister of State (Development)
I thank the Rt. Hon Member for her consistent and passionate campaigning on this issue. The UK remains determined to tackle the abhorrent levels of violence against women and girls in Sudan, including the widespread use of rape as a weapon of war, and we continue to work with international partners and Non Governmental Organisations to provide support to the victims of that violence, to pursue justice against the perpetrators, and to seek a path to lasting peace and security in Sudan, so that women and girls in that country, and those that have fled to neighbouring countries, can live their lives free from fear.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
This remains an ongoing priority for the UK, and we continue to support the Nigerian authorities in tackling violence against civilians of all religions in Nigeria as set out in my Written Ministerial Statement on 27 November 2025 (HLWS1104).
Minister of State (Development)
I apologise for the delay in responding to the Hon. Member's correspondence. A response will be issued shortly.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon. Member to the press release he has mentioned in his questions, and to the article written by the Foreign Secretary in The Telegraph on 15 April, which can be found in the link below: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-world-can-no-longer-plead-ignorance-to-sudan-war/
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK supports the World Health Organization's (WHO) Neglected Tropical Diseases Roadmap 2021-2030, which includes targets to interrupt Hansen's disease (leprosy) transmission, prevent disability and address stigma and discrimination, including through our £248 million contribution to WHO in support of its 2025-2028 programme of work. Our wider support to global health also helps countries to strengthen their health systems and indirectly supports efforts to combat Hansen's disease.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Last year, the UK made the historic decision to recognise the state of Palestine, noting that our commitment to supporting long-term peace stems not only from the current crisis but also from our historic responsibility to the region's security. Available materials about the UK's role during the Mandate for Palestine can be readily accessed from the National Archives.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Last year, the UK made the historic decision to recognise the state of Palestine, noting that our commitment to supporting long-term peace stems not only from the current crisis but also from our historic responsibility to the region's security. Available materials about the UK's role during the Mandate for Palestine can be readily accessed from the National Archives.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I am aware of the case that she raises, and I know the honourable member has written to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office about it and that officials are in touch with her constituent. There is no guidance on the specific circumstances she raises.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK engages with the Government of Pakistan on the rights of religious minorities, including the treatment of Christians, at Ministerial and official levels as appropriate. I raised the treatment of religious minorities directly with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar in August 2025 and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry in March 2025.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 20 April in response to Question 124464.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK remains firmly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, including in Morocco and Western Sahara, as we regularly make clear to all relevant parties. At the most recent UK-Morocco Human Rights Dialogue in November 2025, senior officials discussed areas of mutual interest, including freedom of expression. The UK has endorsed Morocco's autonomy plan as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting solution of the Western Sahara conflict. We continue to engage with all relevant parties in support of the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Under the 20-point Gaza Peace Plan, the Government of Israel committed to the full entry of aid without interference. It is unacceptable that over the last 6 weeks, volumes entering Gaza are only 35 per cent of the minimum targets agreed in the Plan.
This is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and risks undermining the Peace Plan. More crossings and aid corridors must therefore be reopened, and restrictions on humanitarian partners and supplies must be lifted. We will continue to raise these issues directly with the Government of Israel.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer she was provided on 15 January 2025 in response to Question 22098.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
We are deeply concerned by the situation in the West Bank. I have regularly met with civil society organisations to discuss the human rights and humanitarian situation in Palestine, most recently in January 2026.
For the Government's public statements on the issue of illegal settlements, I refer the Hon Member to the answers I gave on this issue in Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office oral questions on 3 March, and to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and fourteen of her overseas counterparts on 24 December 2025 condemning the approval by the Israeli security cabinet of 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-on-israeli-settlement-expansion-in-the-west-bank.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Richard Foord
(Liberal Democrat - Honiton and Sidmouth)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 11 December 2025 in response to Question 97116. The UK continues to oppose the use of capital punishment in all circumstances.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and her counterparts from Australia, Germany, France, Italy, New Zealand on 29 March, which can be found on GOV.UK here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-on-israels-death-penalty-bill-29-march-2026.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answers given on this issue by the Foreign Secretary and myself at the most recent sessions of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office oral questions on 3 March and 21 April, and to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and fourteen of her overseas counterparts on 24 December 2025: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-on-israeli-settlement-expansion-in-the-west-bank.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answers given on this issue by the Foreign Secretary and myself at the most recent sessions of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office oral questions on 3 March and 21 April, and to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and fourteen of her overseas counterparts on 24 December 2025: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-on-israeli-settlement-expansion-in-the-west-bank.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answers given on this issue by the Foreign Secretary and myself at the most recent sessions of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office oral questions on 3 March and 21 April, and to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and fourteen of her overseas counterparts on 24 December 2025: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-on-israeli-settlement-expansion-in-the-west-bank.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer given on 20 April to Question 124464.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the answer given on 20 April to Question 124464.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK's longstanding position on these questions was set out by the previous government on 27 November 2023 in their answer to Question 2945, which - for ease of reference - is reproduced below:
"Israel has never declared a nuclear weapons programme. The UK Government continues to encourage Israel to sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a Non-Nuclear Weapon State. We regularly monitor all global nuclear developments and will continue to work with international partners to strengthen the non-proliferation regime and advance multilateral nuclear disarmament. The UK Government closely follows the security situation in the Middle East and maintains a regular dialogue with international counterparts."
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK's longstanding position on these questions was set out by the previous government on 27 November 2023 in their answer to Question 2945, which - for ease of reference - is reproduced below:
"Israel has never declared a nuclear weapons programme. The UK Government continues to encourage Israel to sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a Non-Nuclear Weapon State. We regularly monitor all global nuclear developments and will continue to work with international partners to strengthen the non-proliferation regime and advance multilateral nuclear disarmament. The UK Government closely follows the security situation in the Middle East and maintains a regular dialogue with international counterparts."
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK's longstanding position on these questions was set out by the previous government on 27 November 2023 in their answer to Question 2945, which - for ease of reference - is reproduced below:
"Israel has never declared a nuclear weapons programme. The UK Government continues to encourage Israel to sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a Non-Nuclear Weapon State. We regularly monitor all global nuclear developments and will continue to work with international partners to strengthen the non-proliferation regime and advance multilateral nuclear disarmament. The UK Government closely follows the security situation in the Middle East and maintains a regular dialogue with international counterparts."
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK has long been clear that the influence of armed militias operating outside effective state control remains one of Iraq's most pressing challenges, threatening both Iraq and the wider region's long-term stability. A stable and effective Iraqi state requires a monopoly on the legitimate use of force, exercised in accordance with the rule of law. Through our diplomatic engagement and programming, the UK supports efforts to strengthen accountable and capable state institutions, improve governance, reduce corruption and uphold due process, and we regularly engage with the Government of Iraq to urge further action to restrain militia activities.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The UK regularly engages with the Syrian Government to press for an inclusive political transition that protects the rights of all Syrians, including women and young people. This was raised directly with President Al Sharaa during his visit to London on 31 March.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and her counterparts from Australia, Germany, France, Italy, New Zealand on 29 March, which can be found on GOV.UK here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-on-israels-death-penalty-bill-29-march-2026.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I refer the Hon Member to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and her counterparts from Australia, Germany, France, Italy, New Zealand on 29 March, which can be found on GOV.UK here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-on-israels-death-penalty-bill-29-march-2026.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)